Late Flat Dutch
95d to harvest
A slow, steady beauty for the patient gardener—Late Flat Dutch forms striking, flattened heads with a cool, blue-green sheen that feels crisp and substantial at first touch. The leaves are finely textured and tightly layered, delivering a sweet, cabbage-forward flavor that shines in hearty preparations and shines even more when used fresh for bold, crunchy salads. Grow it for dependable late-season harvests and a satisfying, firm bite that holds its character through storage.
Crop Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | Mar 28th |
| Last Frost | Apr 25th |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | Apr 25th |
| Harvest Begins | Jul 29th |
| Harvest Ends | Oct 16th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 95 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Rosette |
| Support Needed | None |
| Planting Depth | Normal |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 45 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 40 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 30 |
| Harden Off (days) | 6 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
What pest or disease most commonly affects Brassica oleracea var. capitata (late cabbage), and what should I do?
Watch for cabbage worms (imported cabbageworm/diamondback moth larvae) and control them early with handpicking and frequent leaf checks, especially on the undersides. If damage is increasing, apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) labeled for caterpillars and reapply as directed after new larvae hatch. Also manage black rot risk by removing infected leaves immediately and avoiding splashing water between plants, since Brassica can spread bacterial disease through contaminated runoff.
How can I tell when late flat Dutch cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) is ready to harvest?
Harvest when heads are firm and have filled out the flat, dense shape typical of late cabbage, usually around 95 days from transplanting/when maturity timing aligns. Use the “squeeze test”: the head should feel tight with minimal give, and outer leaves should look sturdy and mature rather than loose. If heads are firm but you see persistent loosening, leave them only briefly—late cabbage can still split if growth becomes too uneven from sudden dry/wet cycles.